Sold for £37,000
(including buyers premium)
Registration No: JDK 449N
Frame No: NM41169
Engine No: F10AD/4/1169
CC: 1200
MOT: Exempt
The modification of a motorcycle to improve its competitiveness has always been part of the racing game. However, the case of the post-war Vincent, particularly the twins, is quite interesting because they were raced well beyond the moment that the factory stopped production. For about 15 years, racers were using the Vincent to adapt it to all disciplines like racetrack, sidecars, grass-track, drag strip; evidence that the power-plant one of the most competitive available at that time. Back in the era, some motorcycle perfected frames and some engines. World champion on 2 wheels and 4, John Surtees is recognised as the original Norvin creator, but many have since mated Norton’s Featherbed frame with Vincent’s formidable vee-twin. It's no easy task to hang an enormous Vincent engine in any frame successfully. Power was often at the expense of handling.
As documented in the Classic Bike Guide (April 2018), JMC classics’ John Mossey, apparently took eight years to perfect this example of a Norvin. This stunning Norvin has been produced by one of the top Vincent restorers and makers of the Norvin name.
“The basis is a Burgess Featherbed frame, made to our design. This enables us to get the Vincent engine to sit more forward and lower than they used to, for better handling.” – Builder, John Mossey, JMC Classics talking to Classic Bike Guide (April 2018)
It benefits from Menarini hubs, a JMC sideline frame, Ohlins (Yamaha XJ1200 units) shocks, Ceriani adjustable forks, 18" flanged rims, JMC alloy fuel tank and oil tank, aluminium mudguards, magnesium drum brakes, a 5" speedo, and belt drive. On top of that it weighs in at an amazing weight of just 181kg. The current vendor has only ridden the Norvin around 190 miles since its completion. A true work of art on the road. With a current V5C, we have been informed that the Norvin is ‘on the button’ and rides very well.
“Rarely is a café racer classed as comfy, but the position is perfect for me…steers lightly, precisely and quickly – like a modern sportsbike….It’s among the best of any bikes I’ve ever ridden, old or new.”– Classic Bike Guide (April 2018)
For more information, please contact:
Mike Davis
mike.davis@handh.co.uk
07718 584217
Auction: National Motorcycle Museum | Solihull, West Midlands, 15th Nov, 2023
Established in 1993, H&H has sold some of the world's most significant motorcars and motorcycles over the past 30 years. Trusted by over 75,000 clients worldwide, we are the longest established auction house of our kind in Europe and the only one owned and managed by its employees.
An auction of classic motorcycles & vintage scooters taking place at the National Motorcycle Museum, Solihull, West Midlands.
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